Importance

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Abstract

A ball valve having reduced torque requirements for rotation is presented. Torque reduction is realized by providing a shaped sealing back member to provide a back force behind essentially the entire sealing surface of the downstream seal. Torque reduction is also realized by providing a dynamic sealing configuration that varies the sealing force over the valve's operating pressure conditions. An initial bias sealing force is applied by a spring member which also provides a low uniform as-assembled valve torque. As fluid pressure increases, the sealing pressure also increases as an o-ring is forced along a ramped surface of the seal. As inlet pressure decreases, the o-ring is allowed to back down the ramped surface to reduce the sealing force against the valve member. This sealing configuration allows for reverse flow or improper installation of the ball valve, and bottoms out to maintain a sealing force at higher back pressure conditions.

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First Claim